Mystery Gate

I only took one shot of this impressive gate because the dogs within were barking ferociously. The structure does not have the straight lines it should have and the towering wall that surrounds the villa is leaning out, perilously, over the road. The rear of the wall has fallen away entirely and it is possible to glimpse a totally ruined building. I do not know if this is the back half of the villa or a secondary building.

From the front, through the gate and past the ancient evergreen oaks, a traditional square villa can be seen. It is a dark cream colour. The villa sits on top of a hill, a former Etruscan site, and but for the oppressive walls would have magnificent views in all directions, including the Apuan Alps in the distance.

The villa was for sale some years ago but was withdrawn. The reason is thought to be a disagreement amongst the many heirs to the property. Someone lives there, perhaps in the one or two rooms which was their inheritance but they do not live in splendour and probably not in much comfort, either.